Tributes have poured in for a Bermudian star runner and kindergarten teacher after she lost her life to a road crash in North Carolina.

Brijette Basden, 24, was killed in a collision on the verge of a highway at 4.45am on Sunday in Durham that left her sister, Asrael Basden, injured.

ABC 11 News reported that Ms Basden had been driving along the I40 westbound highway when she pulled over to switch driving duties with her sister.

The news station said that another car collided with the pair as they stood outside of their vehicle, which the outlet said was partially in the road.

A third car collided with the Basdens’ car before veering off and hitting another car.

Her sister was taken to hospital for treatment of injuries that were not considered life-threatening. No one else was injured in the incident.

All westbound lanes were closed for several hours.

Authorities opened an investigation, though no one has been charged with an offence.

Ms Basden was a 32-times Bermuda School Sports Federation athletics champion. She placed first in the 100 metres for four consecutive years and followed that up with a five-year run of dominance.

She also held another five-year winning streak in the 200 metres.

Ms Basden attended Shaw University in North Carolina in 2019, setting personal bests in 100, 200 and 400 metres.

She graduated in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary level physical education teaching and coaching, and received a master’s in elementary education this year.

Members of Bermuda’s and North Carolina’s communities came forward to offer tributes to the athlete.

The Instagram page Bermuda Track News called Ms Basden “a true legend” whose name was “synonymous with excellence, determination and speed”.

The tribute added that Ms Basden was “far more than a sprinter”.

It said: “A true all-around athlete, she shined in volleyball, basketball, football and netball, just to name a few.

“She showcased her versatility and natural talent across multiple sports.

“She inspired younger athletes with her passion, leadership and unshakeable work ethic, leaving a legacy that went far beyond track.”

The post further said: “Brijette will forever be remembered not only for her phenomenal athletic achievements, but for her radiant smile, kind heart and infectious positive energy.

“She was admired for her drive, her compassion and the way she lifted up everyone around her.

“Her passing has left a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, team-mates and the communities in Bermuda and North Carolina that she touched so deeply.”

The athletics department of Shaw University said they were “deeply saddened” by the death of their alumnus.

The school said: “Brijette’s spirit, determination and bright energy left a lasting impact on all who knew her both on and off the track.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, team-mates and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Micah Wright, a former track runner at Shaw alongside Ms Basden, told US news outlets that her death felt “unreal”.

She said: “She was just so, so kind. So nice. Just loved being around her and with her.

“It just feels so unreal. (It’s) like Brijette, of all people! I just can't process it.”

Sallie B Howard School, where Ms Basden taught, said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of one of our kindergarten teachers.

“Though she was new to our school community, Ms Basden quickly made a lasting impact through her kindness, gentle spirit and passion for educating young children.

“She brought joy and dedication to her classroom every day and was a valued member of our kindergarten team.

“Our staff and students are heartbroken by this loss and will miss her dearly.”